Venango County WCO John A. McKellop “reports that illegal tree stands on state game lands continue to be a major problem. As a reminder, tree stands that do not damage the tree may be erected two weeks before the first deer season, and must be taken down within two weeks of the last deer season on state game lands. If left longer, they become unlawful and the person using them may be cited for the infraction.”

Lawrence County WCO Byron D. Gibbs “reports that multiple tree stands have been removed from state game lands in the district. A seizure tag is attached to all trees where stands had been located. Anyone wishing to claim their stand can call the Northwest Regional Office phone number, which is listed on the tag. Game lands regulations state that tree stands may not be set up more than two weeks before deer seasons in that WMU.”

Mercer County WCO Donald G. Chaybin “states that he has received complaints from several landowners concerning illegal tree stands on their properties. Enforcement actions will be taken when anyone is discovered using these stands this fall. Section 2511 of the Game & Wildlife Code is titled ‘Damage to Trees,’ and it states that unless a person has written permission from the landowner, it is unlawful to build, use or occupy a tree stand that caused damage to the tree when constructed.”

Advice from the PGC for use of a tree stand

“Tree stands and climbing devices that cause damage to trees are unlawful to use or occupy unless the user has written permission from the landowner. Tree stands – or tree steps – penetrating a tree’s cambium layer cause damage, and it is unlawful to build or occupy tree stands screwed or nailed to trees on state game lands, state forests or state parks.

“Hunters are reminded that Game Commission regulations limit the placement of portable hunting tree stands and blinds on state game lands from two weeks before the opening of the first big game season – which is the archery deer season – to two weeks after the close of the last big game season – which is the late archery deer season – within each respective Wildlife Management Unit, excluding the spring gobbler season. Stands must be removed from state game lands two weeks after the late archery deer season.

“Hunters need to remember that placing a tree stand on state game lands does not reserve a hunting area,” Game Commission Executive Director Carl G. Roe said. “The first person to arrive in a certain spot has the right to hunt that area.”

Always use a fall-restraint device – preferably a full-body harness – when hunting from a tree stand. Wear the device from the moment you leave the ground until you return. Don’t climb dead, wet or icy trees. Stay on the ground on blustery days. Get in good physical condition before the season starts. Fatigue can impact judgment, coordination and reaction time, as well as accuracy. Staying physically fit makes a difference.

“Use a hoist rope to lift your bow and backpack to your tree stand. Trying to climb with either will place you at unnecessary risk.

“Don’t sleep in a tree stand! If you can’t stay awake, return to the ground.

“Practice climbing with your tree stand before dawn on the opening day of the season. Consider placing non-slip material on the deck of your tree stand if it’s not already there.”